Wish Farms says its proprietary breeding company, Berry Sweet Research (BSR), is advancing quickly towards commercialization of new varieties. Entering its fourth year of seedling evaluation, BSR is working on innovation, flavor, and performance in its mission of developing premium raspberry and blackberry varieties.
© Wish Farms
The breeding company is preparing to launch full tunnel pre-commercial trials by 2026, featuring two raspberry selections.
At the helm is Carlos Fear, a plant breeder and horticulturalist with 35 years of industry experience. Fear spent much of his career at Driscoll's, where he played a pivotal role developing industry leading berry varieties. He is the inventor or co-inventor on 35 patents spanning raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries.
"We are well on our way to breed and license superior proprietary genetics," said Fear. "All of our efforts are driven by developing exceptional flavor through the understanding of chemistry, molecular genetics, germplasm, sensory analysis, and optimization of production practices."
© Wish Farms
The breeder anticipates expanding pre-commercial trials to include two to four selections with growers.
Each year, BSR assesses 10,000 seedlings, and advances approximately 100 elite selections for further evaluation across three strategic trial locations in California and Mexico. Selections are chosen based on exceptional yield, superior postharvest performance, and standout flavor criteria that reflect the evolving demands of growers, retailers, and consumers.
"Carlos and his team bring a unique skill set, expertise, and vision to our genetic initiatives," says Wish Farms chief operating officer, James Peterson. "The program's momentum continues to build, as results from our 2025 raspberry test plots show outstanding promise."
© Wish Farms
L-R: Carlos Fear, James Peterson
The breeding company is preparing to launch full tunnel pre-commercial trials by 2026, featuring two raspberry selections. It anticipates expanding pre-commercial trials to include two to four selections with growers, paving the way for the release of up to two top-performing varieties for commercial production in 2027.
The company is committed to delivering varieties that not only meet high standards of quality and consistency but also empower growers with genetics that thrive in diverse environments.
For more information:
Nick Wishnatzki
Wish Farms
Tel: +1 (813) 752-5111
[email protected]
www.wishfarms.com
